Democrats on the Senate Armed Services Committee failed to land a decisive blow against Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump’s nominee to serve as secretary of Defense, after several hours of tense questioning about his qualifications, views on women in combat, infidelity and drinking.

Democrats need to flip just one Republican on the Armed Services panel to block Hegseth, but no Republican senator on Tuesday appeared willing to sink Hegseth’s nomination.

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who has championed women in combat and cracking down on sexual assault in the military, appeared to warm up to the nominee during her seven minutes of questioning.

She reiterated the priorities she expects him to pursue if confirmed to lead the Pentagon, and Hegseth in turn pledged to support giving women continued access to ground combat roles if they can meet certain physical standards.

After the hearing wrapped up, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) told reporters that he would bring Hegseth to the floor quickly for a vote.

Thune said he doesn’t see any reason for Hegseth not to be confirmed after the hours-long hearing during which Republicans emphasized public statements praising Hegseth’s character and Democrats raised allegations of sexual misconduct, financial mismanagement and drunkenness.

“I think he’s addressed those allegations,” Thune told reporters Tuesday afternoon. “Every report I’ve had, the readout from the hearing this morning is that he acquitted himself extremely well and made a strong argument for why he ought to be the next secretary of Defense.”

“If he’s reported out of committee, we will work quickly to get him across the floor,” he added.

Sen. Lindsey........

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